Corey Brewer averages 12.2 points in 32.2 minutes per game for the Timberwolves this season, and had never scored 30 points in a single game at any time during his seven-year NBA career.

That made his accomplishment on Friday all the more special.

Brewer poured in 51 points on 19-of-30 shooting, to go along with six steals in Minnesota’s 112-110 victory over the Rockets. He became the fifth different player to score at least that many this season, joining Carmelo Anthony, LeBron James, Terrence Ross, and Kevin Durant (who accomplished it twice).

What do Michael Jordan, Allen Iverson, Rick Barry and Corey Brewer have in common?

They’re the only players in NBA history with at least 50 points and six steals in a game (steals became official in 1973-74). …

The lowest previous career high for a player to score 50 points in a game was 26 by Terrence Ross(earlier this season for the Toronto Raptors) andTony Delk (in 2000-01 for the Phoenix Suns). …

The only other players to score 50 before ever scoring 30 among players with at least two full seasons of NBA experience were Delk (fifth season in 2000-01) and Willie Burton (1994-95 season with the Philadelphia 76ers was his fifth season).

Brewer also became the first player in NBA history to score at least 50 after never cracking 30 points in a career lasting almost seven full seasons.

In terms of defensive efficiency, Rockets are 12th (though this game, Dwight Howrad was out), Grizzlies are 8th, Clippers are 7th, Thunder are 5th, Spurs are 4th, and Warriors are 3rd.

The Pacers and the Bulls are by far the best defensive teams in the NBA, and they both play in the East, but after them, the only other top-10 defenses in the East are the Bobcats, Raptors, and Wizards.

Corey Brewer earned those points by driving hard, leading every fast break and playing some tricky D. On the other side I can’t say I’m surprised Jeremy Lin & James Harden gave up a 50 point game. Rockets need Patrick Beverly back.. soon.